After transitioning from college life at Florida State University, Justin Wilson took what he thought would be a summer job at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. “I studied at University in Business & Finance and hadn’t worked in food & beverage hospitality before but was intrigued by the aura of The Ritz-Carlton as a leading luxury brand,” he says. “It was a gift to learn the operation from the ground up and I was fortunate to work with world-class leaders.” He was a major owner in 3 restaurants and 2 lounges in the historic Church Street Entertainment District of Downtown Orlando in his early to mid-20s. “To make a very long story, short…I lost everything at the time, but it was the greatest experience of my life, and I wouldn’t change the outcome as it led me to where I am today,” he says. Being Director of Food & Beverage and a part of the SLS Brickell Miami team has been one of the highlights of his career. “I’m passionate about inspiring, motivating and developing high-performing teams,” he says. “I love sharing my personal experiences through storytelling and finding out what motivates leaders and team members to be the best versions of themselves. One of the most fulfilling parts of my job is celebrating the successes of others as they grow and develop personally and professionally.” His true love is his passion for wine. “I delight in hosting wine dinners and celebrating life experiences and stories while enjoying expertly curated Chef’s tasting menus to pair with wines from all over the world,” he says.; SBE.com/Hotels/SLS-Hotels/Brickell.
